Dwyane Wade

Dwyane Wade is an American former professional basketball player and current co‑owner of the Utah Jazz, widely regarded as one of the greatest shooting guards in NBA history. Born on January 17, 1982 in Chicago, Illinois, he rose from a challenging South Side upbringing to a storied 16‑year playing career that began when the Miami Heat selected him fifth overall in the 2003 NBA draft. Wade quickly became the franchise’s cornerstone, leading the Heat to three NBA championships (2006, 2012, 2013) and earning the NBA Finals MVP award in 2006, while also capturing thirteen All‑Star selections and a scoring title in 2009. His relentless drive earned him the nickname “Flash”, a moniker bestowed by teammate Shaquille O'Neal, and his jersey number 3 was retired by Miami in 2020 as a tribute to his impact. Beyond the court, Wade represented Team USA, winning a bronze medal at the 2004 Athens Olympics and a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Games where he led the “Redeem Team” in scoring. After stints with the Chicago Bulls and Cleveland Cavaliers, he returned to Miami to finish his playing career in 2019, retiring as the Heat’s all‑time leader in points, assists, steals, and games played. Since hanging up his sneakers, Wade has transitioned to ownership, joining a minority stake in the Utah Jazz in 2021 and the WNBA’s Chicago Sky in 2023, while also hosting the U.S. version of The Cube. Off the court, he is a dedicated philanthropist, founder of The Wade’s World Foundation, and a vocal advocate for LGBTQ rights, reflecting a legacy that extends far beyond basketball.